Managing in today's complex environment is more challenging than ever. The addition of multi-functional teams, virtual work environments, and dotted-line reporting relationships have made the once "neat-and-tidy" hierarchical flowcharts we learned about in management 101 into an intricate matrix. Complicated webs make the "simple" job of getting things done not so simple, and this trend toward matrix management has created the need for a new leadership skill set.

The Matrix Manager Inventory is a vital and timely training program that's designed to help both new and seasoned managers acquire and develop the ability to flex between "command and control" and "influence and collaborate" in an attempt to master matrix management.

How It Works

The Matrix Manager Inventory uses a mix of a self-assessment, workbook activities, and a classroom workshop designed to train your managers to become well-equipped to navigate the dynamics of matrix management, handle constant change with confidence, influence performance when there is no direct control, and achieve the results that drive organizational success.

Uses and Applications

Unlike many leadership tools, the Matrix Manager Inventory does not emphasize traditional "command" and "control" (hierarchical) management skills. Rather, the Matrix Manager Inventory emphasizes reliance on the influence and collaboration skills available to managers and leaders through the skillful application of matrix management as the most appropriate pathway to both personal and organizational success.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of this workshop, participants will:

Learn how to balance the skills required of traditional and matrix management

Understand the matrix management decision-making criteria

Build a "spectrum" of skills and behaviors that drive successful influence and collaboration

Define the role set or network needed to be a successful matrix manager

Overcome the daily dilemmas and challenges of matrix management

Product Details

Product Type: Assessment and workshop

Target Audience: The primary audience is mid-level managers and project managers who need to manage globally dispersed teams, but this will also be beneficial to executives, individual contributors, and consultants who need to perform successfully in global organizational environments

Measures: The competencies needed to manage in virtual and cross-functional environments

What to Order

Facilitator Guide: Order One Guide Per Trainer.

The Facilitator Guide includes all of the information necessary to help participants develop an understanding of the matrix manager concepts and assist the facilitator in running a successful training workshop.

Paper Assessment 5-Pack: Order One Pack for Up to Five Participants.

The print version of the Matrix Manager Inventory includes the assessment questions, scoring and charting instructions, and basic interpretive materials. This assessment includes 40 questions and should take participants about 15 minutes to complete.

Workbook 5-Pack: Order One Pack for Up to Five Participants.

The Workbook is intended for use in a group setting and includes the information necessary to help participants build a basic understanding of the Matrix Manager Inventory concepts and the roles and responsibilities of the matrix manager. This Workbook also includes information about interpreting the results of the online Matrix Manager Inventory assessment and can be used with either the print or online version of the assessment.

Online Assessment: Order One Per Participant.

The online assessment is administered to participants through the HRDQ Assessment Center and includes personalized reporting, full-color charts, interpretive information, worksheets, and action planning. A detailed report is delivered electronically to the facilitator when complete. Buy the ONLINE version here.

About the Authors

James P. Eicher, MA, is a well-respected author and consultant and subject matter expert in the fields of sales, organizational strategy, leadership, and communication. He has held leadership roles at Booz Allen Hamilton, Andersen Worldwide, Symantec, and NetApp. He was also the founder of Cognitive Management, a training and consulting firm with worldwide clients such as Xerox, Reuters, Sony, Simon and Schuster, Amdahl, and Nortel. He is the author of the Leader-Manager Profile and the Neurolinguistic Communication Profile as well as the highly acclaimed book on management communication, Making the Message Clear.

Dr. John Jones (1935-2003) was the president of Organizational Universe Systems. He was best known as the co-founder of University Associates and the co-editor of the experience-based training and consulting handbooks and annuals. He regularly consulted with such clients as AT&T, Baxter Healthcare, Coors, GMC, Xerox, Kaiser-Permanente, Hughes Aircraft, ARC International, and numerous non-profit organizations in education and government.

William L. Bearley, Ed.D. is vice president of Organizational Universe Systems. He is an information systems and organization development consultant, combining his computer expertise with a solid background in human resources. He collaborated with Dr. John Jones on instrumentation in team building, decision making, burnout, and organizational change. He consults with numerous clients, such as AT&T, Honeywell, Xerox, L’Oreal, and many educational and healthcare organizations.